Estes Park at Night

Located just 90 miles from Denver, Estes Park has served as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park for 100 years. The town has come a long way since the 1990s, most recently surviving the "500-year" flood.

The Stanley Hotel

A visit to Estes Park isn't complete without seeing or staying in the historic, haunted Stanley Hotel. Built in 1909, the hotel has hosted many famous folk; it was here that Stephen King was inspired to pen The Shining. Fun fact: You can watch the uncut film version on all hotel TVs.

Lake Estes

In the summer months, float your boat on Lake Estes nestled in the valley next to town. Rent a kayak, canoe or pontoon boat at the marina, or stay on dry land and pedal your way around the lake on pedal carts or bikes.

Riverwalk in Estes Park

Stroll among shops, outdoor eateries, parks and a water wheel in the heart of downtown Estes Park on the Riverwalk. Park yourself on a bench or bridge to people watch where the Fall River and Big Thompson River merge.

Golf

Should you yell "Four!" to an elk? Elk are in frequent supply when you tee up on the Estes Park Executive 9-Hole Golf Course. Try not to let animal watching distract you from your par 3s and 4s.

Winter Fun

Take in beautiful vistas and wildlife watching during the winter months in Rocky Mountain National Park. Strap on snowshoes or cross country skis and traverse a variety of trails like this one with a view of Hallett Peak (left).

Alpine Visitor Center

From the Beaver Meadows entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, drive to the Alpine Visitor Center at 11,796 feet for gorgeous views. The center's a regular stop for tourists with public restrooms, a gift shop and a cafe.

Dream Lake in Colorado

Keep your camera handy for spectacular views of Longs Peak and Glacier Gorge while hiking Dream Lake Trail. This relatively easy, two-mile hike is one of the most popular in Rocky Mountain National Park, perhaps because it is located in Tyndall Gorge, one of the five glaciers still active in RMNP.

Big Thompson Canyon Drive in Estes Park, Colo.

The eastbound drive into Estes Park from Big Thompson Canyon is known as one of the most beautiful drives in the state. Rugged cliffs and picture-perfect views culminate in this view driving into Estes Park.

Moraine Park in Colorado

This flat expanse located near the Moraine Park Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park was forever changed by glaciers that halted their downhill migration, settling and eventually receding to leave fertile meadows where elk and other wildlife gathers.